Initially, transitioning to life in Japan was a little difficult. I went from a country where everyone speaks English to a country where Japanese is the main language, and English speakers are not always around. In the beginning, there were times I would freeze at a restaurant or check-out counter because it would take me a second to process the Japanese being spoken to me. I would try to translate it in my head and think of the appropriate response without wasting too much time. However, as time went on I began to adjust and everything began to feel more and more normal. I live in Hirakata, which is a small city. Being that it is not a big city, it has allowed me the opportunity to really get to know the local business owners. I have really enjoyed this part of life in Japan because it has helped me feel more like a part of the community. Additionally, speaking with them more and more was one of the things that also helped me a lot because it allowed me the chance to not only practice hearing Japanese but also practice appropriate responses to the questions. The food has been amazing! I have had the opportunity to try a lot of different Japanese food. Chicken katsu and udon are my favorite Japanese dishes. One of the local business owners I have gotten to know owns a restaurant called Roro. It has the best chicken katsu! Yakitori is also amazing! My favorite yakitori restaurant is called Torikizoku. They have so many yakitori options. The desserts in Japan are absolutely delicious! They are the perfect amount of sweetness. The convenience stores have so many different options for amazing desserts. My favorite Japanese dessert is taiyaki! It is like a cake shaped like a fish that is typically filled with custard, red bean paste, or chocolate. My time in Japan has been amazing!